General Internal Medicine Physicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 66,640 general internal medicine physicians, and they earn a median of $236,350/year. The range runs from starting around $70K. West Virginia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level general internal medicine physicians start around $70K. The gap between that and the median ($236K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $235K | 540 |
| Illinois | $235K | 1,660 |
| Kentucky | $231K | 510 |
| Vermont | $229K | 200 |
| Michigan | $227K | 1,810 |
| Rhode Island | $223K | 340 |
| Connecticut | $214K | 620 |
| District of Columbia | $209K | 620 |
| Louisiana | $204K | 1,000 |
| Nebraska | $179K | 740 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a general internal medicine physicians make?▼
The median general internal medicine physicians salary in the United States is $236,350 per year ($114/hour). Entry-level positions start around $70,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a general internal medicine physicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for general internal medicine physicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for general internal medicine physicians.
What are the highest paying states for general internal medicine physicians?▼
The highest paying states for general internal medicine physicians are West Virginia ($234,960), Illinois ($234,880), Kentucky ($231,240), Vermont ($228,840), Michigan ($227,270). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.